Are you a fan of jar candles but sometimes find that the wax doesn’t burn evenly? If so, you’re not alone. Burning a jar candle can be tricky at first since there are multiple “rules” to consider in order to get it right.
But don’t worry – with some straightforward tips and tricks, we can help ensure your beautiful scent fills every room for as long as possible! Read on for all the key information about how to burn a jar candle evenly and make sure your relaxing time is anything but stressful.
Related Article: How to Extend the Life of a Candle
What Causes Tunneling in Candles
Tunneling is a common problem that occurs when a candle burns down the center and leaves a tunnel along the sides. There are several factors that can cause tunneling in candles:
The wick is too small: If the wick is too small, it may not be able to support the flame and keep the wax melting evenly. As a result, the wax may melt down the center of the candle and leave a tunnel along the sides.
The candle is burned for too short a time: If a candle is burned for too short a time, the wax may not have a chance to melt and form a full pool. This can cause the candle to tunnel as the flame consumes the wick and leaves a tunnel of unmelted wax along the sides.
The candle is burned in a draft: Burning a candle in a draft, such as near an open window or fan, can cause the flame to flicker and the wax to melt unevenly. This can lead to tunneling as the wax melts down the center of the candle and leaves a tunnel along the sides.
The candle is made of low-quality wax: Some types of wax, such as paraffin wax, are more prone to tunneling than others. If the candle is made of low-quality wax, it may be more prone to tunneling as it burns.
By understanding the factors that can cause tunneling in candles, you can take steps to prevent it and ensure that your candle burns evenly and efficiently.
Related Article: Why do candles Tunnel?
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How to Burn a Jar Candle Evenly
Burning a candle evenly is important for getting the most out of your candle and ensuring that it burns safely. Here are some tips for burning a candle evenly:
Trim the wick: Before lighting the candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This will help the candle burn more evenly and reduce the risk of the flame getting too large.
Place the candle on a stable surface: Make sure to place the candle on a stable surface that is away from flammable materials, drafts, and other sources of heat. This will help the candle burn evenly and prevent the flame from flickering or going out.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Most candles come with specific instructions for how to burn them safely. Make sure to read and follow these instructions to ensure that you are using the candle correctly and getting the most out of it.
Let the wax pool: When you first light the candle, let it burn long enough for the wax to melt and form a full pool. This will help the candle burn more evenly and prevent tunneling, which is when the wax burns down the center of the candle and leaves a tunnel along the sides.
Avoid burning the candle for too long: Overburning a candle can cause it to burn unevenly and create excess smoke or soot. To prevent this, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended burn time and extinguish the candle before it burns down too far.
Rotate the candle: If you are burning a jar candle, try rotating the candle occasionally to help the wax melt evenly and prevent tunneling.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your candle burns evenly and safely. Remember to always use caution when burning candles and to extinguish them properly when you are finished using them. Once you are finished with your candle, you can clean you candle jar and repurpose it, or make a candle of your own!
Related Article: Why do Candles Burn Unevenly?
More of a visual learner? This video from Cory on the ol’ interweb has you covered!